Things to do in Crystal River

Getting there: Crystal River is about 300 miles from Fort Lauderdale. The easiest way to get there is to take Florida's Tunrpike to I-75 north, then exit at State Road 44 and go west until it ends.

Where to stay: Plantation on Crystal River (call 800-632-6262 or visit plantationoncrystalriver.com) has an Old Florida feel with modern amenities. The resort has an 18-hole championship golf course and a 9-hole executive course and a spa. For the outdoors-lover. There is a marina and dive shop, rental canoes, kayaks, pontoon boats and johnboats. The dive shop offers a manatee snorkel tour, diving and snorkeling in area springs and rivers as well as two-day dive certification packages for those who complete the PADI online course.

Scalloping package: Two people can go scalloping with a guide for $249 apiece midweek or two people can go scalloping in their own boat for $119 apiece midweek (prices are $299 and $149, respectively, Friday and Saturday). That includes a two-night stay, breakfast both mornings, mask, snorkel and fins for guided trips and free launching, dockage and trailer storage for self-guided trips, and preparation of your catch for dinner in the West 82 Bar & Grill.

Wildlife watching: Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park (352-628-2311 or floridastateparks.org) features a spring that attracts manatees, a children's education center and wildlife ranging from deer, bears and a hippo to snakes, alligators and bald eagles. Admission is $13 for adults and $5 for ages 6-12. Birders can check out Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge and hikers have plenty to see in the Withlacoochee State Forest.

Fishing: Inshore species include redfish, sea trout and tarpon. Offshore species include grouper, kingfish and cobia. Bass fishing is good in Lake Rousseau.